**Cole Escola Pokes Fun at Rivalry Among Mary Todd Lincoln Portrayals at the Tony Awards**
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At the 79th annual Tony Awards held on June 7, Cole Escola, the writer and performer behind the hit Broadway production *Oh, Mary!*, made light of the competitive atmosphere among the actresses portraying Mary Todd Lincoln. During a red carpet interview with *New York Magazine*, Escola jokingly remarked that the performers in this role “hate each other,” suggesting that their rivalry is an essential component of the show.
Currently being staged at the Lyceum Theatre, *Oh, Mary!* features Maya Rudolph in her Broadway debut as Mary Todd Lincoln. Starting in July, the role will be taken over by comedian Megan Stalter, known for her work on HBO’s *Hacks*. As Escola donned a striking ensemble complete with ruffles and a bright pink bow, they teased the relationship dynamics among the stars.
“You should see some of the things that Maya has said about Meg Stalter, some of the things Maya has said about me,” Escola commented, playfully hinting at the playful banter and competitive spirit inherent in the show. “I would say Maya has been the most competitive so far,” they added, providing a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes antics that come with the role.
Escola’s sense of humour reflects their unique vision for the production, which they claim thrives on a certain level of competitive spirit that mirrors the character of Mary Todd Lincoln herself. “That’s what I want,” the Tony winner stated. “You know, it keeps it alive. And show business is built on spite, is what I always say.” This philosophy not only adds layers to the production but also sparks interest among audiences, drawn to the drama both on and off stage.
*Oh, Mary!* presents a new and somewhat unconventional take on Mary Todd Lincoln, reimagining her as a spirited woman with aspirations of becoming a cabaret star. The play debuted Off-Broadway in January 2024 before making its Broadway transition just a few months later. Escola, alongside a diverse lineup of performers, has paved the way for a unique interpretation of this historical figure.
Over the course of the show’s run, a variety of prominent stars have stepped into the role of Mary Todd Lincoln, including Betty Gilpin, Tituss Burgess, Jinkx Monsoon, Jane Krakowski, and John Cameron Mitchell. The show has garnered critical acclaim, finding success not just on Broadway but also in the West End, where it has received an Olivier Award for its outstanding performances.
As the stage prepares for Megan Stalter to take over the role next month, she has expressed her own approach to the performance. Speaking at The Abbey 35th Anniversary Party in May, Stalter shared her laid-back attitude towards her preparation. “I feel like I’m just going to kind of wing it,” she said. “I don’t think I’m going to even learn the lines because I feel like you just get up there and kind of like, do it.” This approach signifies a level of confidence and spontaneity that audiences might anticipate from her upcoming portrayal.
The competitive nature of the role has sparked conversations about the dynamics within the cast and how rivalry can influence performances. While the jokes shared by Escola at the Tony Awards might be lighthearted, they highlight a deeper narrative about ambition and artistry in the sphere of theatre.
For theatre enthusiasts and casual viewers alike, *Oh, Mary!* offers a blend of talent, humour, and self-awareness that keeps audiences returning for more. The Tony Awards have only underscored the excitement surrounding this production, establishing it as a significant player in the theatrical landscape.
As the countdown to the replacement of Rudolph by Stalter continues, fans are curious to see how the new Mary Todd Lincoln will shape the ongoing legacy of *Oh, Mary!*. The 2026 Tony Awards will also reflect trends and transformations in theatre, airing on CBS and streaming on Paramount+ for those eager to watch. With Escola and Stalter at the helm of this vibrant production, the spirit of competition is sure to keep audiences entertained long into the future.